Characterization of Biochar and Compost Produced from different Plant Materials and Its Swine-based Compost for Soil Nutrient Release (Published)
This study focused on potential of different plant materials to release nutrients, its transformation into biochar and compost, and effect of this transformation on some chemical properties in relation to bioavailability of end-products. Preparations of Compost and Biochar were carried out by Aerobic Heap and Top-lit Up-Draft kiln methods respectively for six different plant materials (Cassava peels, Gliricidia cuttings, Maize stovers, Neem clippings, Panicum maximum and sawdust). Chemical analysis was carried out, before and after transformation. Wide variability in the capacity to release nutrients was discovered from analysis of the initial plant materials. The degree of abundance of nutrients (macro and secondary elements) in either compost or biochar, produced from different plant materials was observed. However, the most significant build of these nutrients was observed in Gliricidia-Swine based compost. Therefore, depending on duration of the crop, either biochar or compost will be a suitable soil amendment for soil fertility management.
Keywords: Bioavailability, Biochar, Chemical Properties, compost, plant materials, soil nutrient management